Choosing A Graphic Designer

Graphic designers work on either a freelance basis or as part of a larger design company. Freelance graphic designers are generally cheaper but may also come at the cost of dependability and delivery. Larger design houses create their reputations on their ability to create unique work that is of high quality, and their ability to deliver the work on time. If you are unable to find a freelance designer who can conform to your expectations, try looking for assistance at a larger design house. More often than not a large design house will be more than happy to try to deliver a product that is tailored to your needs and budget.

Key Things to Look For:

Many clients have difficulty choosing a graphic designer, simply because they aren't sure what to look for. Here are some things to consider when choosing a professional graphic designer:

A strong portfolio
The imagery should be memorable as well as appropriate for each project. For instance, an ad directed at senior citizens should not include very small type.

Marketing knowledge
Pretty images are a dime a dozen. The designer should be able to clearly articulate the goal of each piece and how it reached its audience. Good design communicates and motivates; it does not merely decorate. Designers should be able to tell you how their work translated into higher sales figures, greater attendance at clients' events, or some other concrete result of their work. While it can be helpful if a designer has experience with the particular product you envision, it is not always necessary. Good design skills can transcend most media and good designers will tell you up-front if they aren't right for the job.

Excellent business skills
A good designer stays on top of all the details of your project and makes the best use of your time and money.

Formal education in graphic design, not just software skills
Graphic design is an art and craft with foundational principles that have a direct impact on the effectiveness of printed communication. A designer's software skills have little impact on their ability to translate your brand.

Personable and professional demeanor
Since you choose whom you'll work with, hire someone you'll enjoy partnering with and who provides professional service.

Ability
A good graphic designer will have capability to do just about anything so don't be afraid to shoot your ideas past them. Any designer that is worth paying will be more than happy to let you have a few minutes of Q&A time with them, after all, if you're going to be paying them for design work you should be giving them your creative input.

Ask for samples of previous work that they've done, and don't forget to ask if it's okay that you contact previous clients to verify the quality of their work. A designer with confidence and a solid reputation will have no problem allowing you to do so.

Reliability
Many creative people are excellent in terms of their craft but lack some of the finer time management skills. Talk to previous clients and verify their reliability. Being able to deliver their product around their quoted deadline is important, so take steps to ensure that the designer that you've hired is capable of doing so. Tip: Does the designer have full contact information on their website. This is vitally important. Beware of anyone whose only point of contact is an email address or enquiry form.

Service
Ask your designer what they will do if you are not happy with the product that they submit. A reputable designer will work with you to create a product that you will be happy with, ensuring that you are satisfied and that they can say that they have another happy client. They should keep the lines of communication open so that you are able to contribute when required and they are able to contact you when they need to.

What to consider when moving offices

The staple items you will need to consider when moving offices are:

• Business cards
• Letterheads
• Comp slips
• Brochure or leaflet
• Website
• E-mailer or Direct Mail piece
• Advert
• Online banner advertising
• Exhibition stand

_{* Compiled by Bullet London}